Travis County, TX Real Estate News

By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
El Arroyo is an iconic local spot in Austin. They make the best hand-squeezed margaritas and serve Black Angus beef tacos (along with many other Tex- Mex offerings) and have since 1975!A quirky marquee is out front on the corner of West 5th and Campbell. Every day they change their bill board with a new pun (everything imaginable).  They encourage you to submit your pun on their website and of course have permission to post them. It’s one of those “Keep Austin Weird” things that we all in Austin love!They post them on Instagram because everyone loves them. Our own Myrl Jeffcoat follows them as well as Kathy Streib and chef Endre Barath, Jr.! I also see Debe Maxwell, CRS has been following them. We all need some laughter or a chuckle each day! It's fun checking out the new pun each day. ...
Comments 36
By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
As we gather to celebrate the spirit of Thanksgiving, I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you. It has been a privilege and joy to assist you on your journey home, and I am truly thankful for the trust you have placed in me.Your partnership and collaboration have made my work immeasurably rewarding. This Thanksgiving, my heart is filled with appreciation for the relationships we've built, the challenges we've overcome, and the milestones we've achieved together.May your Thanksgiving be a time of reflection, surrounded by the warmth of loved ones. I wish you a day filled with joy, laughter, and the simple pleasures that make life beautiful.Thank you once again for allowing me to be a part of your home-buying journey. Your trust and support mean...
Comments 28
By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
Another exciting week unfolded in the six-week Cotillion program that my grandson, Handsome Hudson, is currently enrolled in. In this most recent session, the kids transported themselves back to the 1950s, donning vintage attire, learning dances, and needless to say, having an absolute blast! Don't you love that 50's attitude displayed, right on point!!     Hudson, along with a group of fellow classmates comprising both boys and girls, embarked on this Cotillion journey during their fifth-grade year. Their adventure began on Sunday, October 1st, at the prestigious Shirley McPhail School of Dance. It's been fun to witness the camaraderie and building of friendships the kids have experienced throughout their Cotillion experience.Cotillion is tailor-made for pre-teen students, offering a c...
Comments 11
By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
October proved to be a good month in this fluctuating market for us! Our NW Coldwell Banker branch toasted 22 of our agents, who qualified for the prestigious October Million Dollar Club by either listing, writing business, closing sales worth 1 million dollars or more!We've successfully adjusted to the changing market dynamics, which include properties staying on the market longer, lower listing prices, and an increase in available inventory in certain communities in Austin. Witnessing the fruits of everyone's diligent efforts in providing top-notch service to our clients is truly exhilarating.u  We took 22 listings for $15,702,900M with an average list price of $713,768K and took 8 leases.u  We wrote 61 contracts for $35,373,255M with an average sales price of $579,889K and wrote 12 l...
Comments 15
By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
El Arroyo is an iconic local spot in Austin. They make the best hand-squeezed margaritas and serve Black Angus beef tacos (along with many other Tex- Mex offerings) and have since 1975!A quirky marquee is out front on the corner of West 5th and Campbell. Every day they change their bill board with a new pun (everything imaginable).  They encourage you to submit your pun on their website and of course have permission to post them. It’s one of those “Keep Austin Weird” things that we all in Austin love!They post them on Instagram because everyone loves them. Our own Myrl Jeffcoat follows them as well as Kathy Streib and chef Endre Barath, Jr.! I also see Debe Maxwell, CRS has been following them. We all need some laughter or a chuckle each day! It's fun checking out the new pun each day. ...
Comments 28
By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
I often find myself expressing gratitude for my grandkids, son, and daughter, but today, I want to take a moment to acknowledge my wonderful daughter-in-law, Erika. Erika holds a special place in our hearts and plays a vital role in our family. She is not only married to my son, John Dunham, and mother to Hudson and Beckett, but is an exceptional person with so many incredible qualities. This was their Christmas card in 2020! Erika is an accomplished athlete, much like our son John. Her discipline, dedication, and hard work shine through in her passion for running. Despite her busy schedule, she excels as a mother, a loving wife, and maintains a demanding full-time position as the Global Head of Customer Education at Dati.ai. Her ability to balance these roles is truly admirable, and w...
Comments 28
By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
El Arroyo is an iconic local spot in Austin. They make the best hand-squeezed margaritas and serve Black Angus beef tacos (along with many other Tex- Mex offerings) and have since 1975!A quirky marquee is out front on the corner of West 5th and Campbell. Every day they change their bill board with a new pun (everything imaginable).  They encourage you to submit your pun on their website and of course have permission to post them. It’s one of those “Keep Austin Weird” things that we all in Austin love!They post them on Instagram because everyone loves them. Our own Myrl Jeffcoat follows them as well as Kathy Streib and chef Endre Barath, Jr.! I also see Debe Maxwell, CRS has been following them. We all need some laughter or a chuckle each day! It's fun checking out the new pun each day. ...
Comments 21
By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
We've found the perfect buyer! It took four viewings involving the extended family and a significant amount of family input to arrive at an offer. After several days of negotiations, we now have a signed contract and a 7-day option period.This luxurious residence captured the attention of a young couple looking to start a family. Our sellers purchased this home in 2012 when their own children were little. They had hoped that another young couple would fall in love with it and embark on a similar journey.These buyers were drawn to the serene suburban setting and were charmed by the elegant columns, exquisite crown molding, engineered wood flooring, a chef's kitchen, and an abundance of windows that flood the home with natural light, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor beauty.Upstairs,...
Comments 14
By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
Latest news on the Canyon Creek Real Estate market in October 2023….What you need to know now…..What it means for youThe Canyon Creek real estate market in late autumn exhibits interesting trends worth noting. The figures for October reflect the culmination of September's activities and contractual agreements. Several factors, including the prolonged scorching heat in to October, escalating interest rates, and a degree of buyer apathy in September, have collectively contributed to weaker numbers. Interestingly, one particular property experienced three separate contract negotiations before ultimately scheduling closing in November. Presently, the market inventory hovers at a modest level, just over two months.The sky is not falling. It's also not an entirely idyllic scenario. Instead, i...
Comments 18
By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
Did you know that the Halloween we celebrate today has its origins in the ancient Celtic Festival of Samhain, which was observed about 2,000 years ago on November 1st? This festival marked the beginning of winter. Over time, the Christian church moved the celebration to November 1st, calling it All Saints Day or All Hallows Day, with the night before becoming known as Hallows Eve, later shortened to Halloween.Jump ahead to the 19th century in America, where Irish and Scottish immigrants reshaped this time-honored tradition and introduced the concept of Trick or Treating. In those days, it was more about playing tricks than receiving treats. Nowadays, Halloween is all about parties, indulging in delicious candies, embracing fun or spooky costumes, carving pumpkins, and of course, going d...
Comments 30
By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
While enjoying drinks with my good friend Ramona she recounted an animated and thought-provoking conversation she had with a group centered on the question, 'What feeds your soul?'"A quote came up, "May you find the person that speaks your same language, so that you don’t have to spend your life translating your soul." No one was sure of the author but I felt this carried a deep and profound message about the quest for true connection and understanding in relationships. This quote encourages us to seek out those individuals with whom we share a profound and innate connection, making it unnecessary to constantly explain or justify our thoughts, feelings, and experiences.I made some other observations as Ramona and I began discussing a few key interpretations of the quote:u  Seeking Authe...
Comments 20
By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
Saturday once again brought a day filled with sports for our family! It all began with Handsome Hudson's Pop Warner football game at 9 am. Although it was their final game and they ended up losing, they played a commendable match and were proud of the progress they made in their inaugural season of tackle football. We all managed to attend Beautiful Beckett's softball game as well. She has one more game to go, and she's already considering signing up for the spring season. She thoroughly enjoys playing and is a capable athlete! Beckett scored two runs once again, which excited her no end. The team of girls she plays with has shown remarkable improvement in their skill sets throughout the season.Dad and Hudson hurried off to catch the UT game against BYU, and what an exciting game it tur...
Comments 25
By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
El Arroyo is an iconic local spot in Austin. They make the best hand-squeezed margaritas and serve Black Angus beef tacos (along with many other Tex- Mex offerings) and have since 1975!A quirky marquee is out front on the corner of West 5th and Campbell. Every day they change their bill board with a new pun (everything imaginable).        They encourage you to submit your pun on their website and of course have permission to post them. It’s one of those “Keep Austin Weird” things that we all in Austin love!They post them on Instagram because everyone loves them. Our own Myrl Jeffcoat follows them as well as Kathy Streib and chef Endre Barath, Jr.! I also see Debe Maxwell, CRS has been following them. We all need some laughter or a chuckle each day! It's fun checking out the new pun each...
Comments 32
By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
Winner, Winner! Jack, you're the lucky recipient of a $200 Home Depot gift card in my Clients for Life program giveaway through Coldwell Banker! It's always such a delight when clients like you participate and emerge as winners – your support and enthusiasm mean the world to me!  Your engagement serves as a testament to the bond we share, making my work all the more rewarding. I still remember representing you on purchasing your home in Canyon Creek back in 2005. Wow! Time sure flies by.
Comments 29
By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
Our awesome office building landlords sure know how to throw a party for all us office-dwellers in our twin skyscrapers! A few weeks back, we got our first tantalizing taste of the upcoming "Festivals of Fears Halloween" event, and trust me; we anticipated the finalized details!Now we have the scoop! Get ready for a spine-tingling good time on Halloween, October 31st, right in the heart of Building No.1's lobby. It's a tradition that's never let us down – costumes are non-negotiable, and the prizes are nothing short of legendary. Plus, they've got a photo booth running from 1 to 2:30, and a stash of cupcakes that'll keep you coming back for more.Don your most mind-blowing costume and strut your stuff in the lobby for the costume contest at the stroke of 10 am. Seriously, the prizes are ...
Comments 22
By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
This past Sunday marked the midpoint of the 6-week Cotillion program for Handsome Hudson's class. Hudson and several of his classmates, both boys and girls, embarked on this Cotillion journey during their 5th-grade year. The program kicked off on Sunday, October 1st, at the Shirley McPhail School of Dance. Cotillion is designed pre-teen school-aged children, focusing on imparting social skills, etiquette, table manners, and ballroom dance. The program's highlight is a final dinner dance, providing participants with an opportunity to showcase their newly acquired skills. This past Sunday, their lesson was centered around the importance of practicing proper table manners. The Sunday before was 2 step and line dancing (hey... we live in Texas), and the first week was learning the fox trot ...
Comments 24
By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
“You don’t have to wait to be confident. Just do it and eventually the confidence will follow.”  Carrie FisherThis quote by Carrie Fisher emphasizes the idea that confidence is not a prerequisite for taking action; instead, it's something that can develop over time as a result of taking action. In other words, you don't need to wait until you feel completely confident before you start something or pursue a goal. Often, people hesitate to begin because they don't feel self-assured, but this quote suggests that you can start even when you have doubts or insecurities.I observe my grandchildren eagerly joining sports without worrying about their initial skill level. They're driven by a desire to learn, be with friends, make new ones, and explore the sport. They have a great time, acquire ne...
Comments 22
By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
Saturday was a jam-packed day of sports for our family! It all kicked off with Handsome Hudson's Pop Warner football game at 9 am, and they managed to secure a victory against their rivals with a one-touchdown lead! Beckett and her mom had to dash off to her flag football game, which was scheduled for 10:30. Hudson also left right after his football game with his dad for a basketball match at 12:30.I made it to Beckett's softball game at 12:45, and what an exciting game it turned out to be! The team's chemistry was on full display, and Beckett showcased her impressive batting skills. She was overjoyed to hit the ball and bring in two runners while reaching first base. Meanwhile, Hudson was engaged in another basketball game that propelled them to the finals, set to be played today.We f...
Comments 40
By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
     Are you prepared to embark on a thrilling journey towards unlocking the next chapter in your life? Selling your home in the current real estate market is an adventure filled with excitement and endless possibilities. I’m here to turn your real estate aspirations into an exciting reality.There are market opportunities, and I’m ready to guide you through every step of the process. The prospect of selling your home isn't just a transaction; it's the start of a new and promising chapter in your life story.   As a real estate expert, I understand that selling your home is more than just a financial decision. It's a significant life event, and I’m here to ensure that it's an experience you'll look back on with satisfaction and pride. Let's embark on this journey together, shaping your r...
Comments 20
By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
  Join us in experiencing the charm of an unmissable event - our Open House happening this Sunday, October 22, 2023, between 1 and 3 pm. 9705 Cinnabar Trail, Austin, TX 78726 My daughter, Melissa Stout with Coldwell Banker will be hosting and would love the opportunity to show you this remarkable property! If you can't make it please call Melissa at 512-554-6656 and she will be happy to make an appointment to show you the house another time. This executive residence harmoniously combines modern living, seamlessly blending nature, comfort, and cutting-edge technology. This is the epitome of suburban tranquility, graced with grand columns, refined crown molding, engineered wood flooring, a chef's kitchen, and an abundance of windows that bathes the home in natural light, seamlessly conne...
Comments 30
Travis County, TX Real Estate Professionals